Prandelli said: “He has great technique and can play in any area of midfield. He always manages to spread the play, as if under pressure he plays it first time, while with time he picks out a more measured pass.

“His teammates recognise his importance. Thiago Motta has maintained the Brazilian technique and acquired a European mentality, so he goes into the tackle when he has to. It’s good to have another important player available.

“In my view, the issue of the Oriundi has never been a problem. It is the future of football. Just look at our youth academies, where 60 per cent of the young players are foreign. Adopting the Oriundi provides Coaches with another option.”